Psalm 57

  1. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.
  2. I will cry unto God most high; unto God that performeth all things for me.
  3. He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.
  4. My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
  5. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above all the earth.
  6. They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down: they have digged a pit before me, into the midst whereof they are fallen themselves. Selah.
  7. My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.
  8. Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early.
  9. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations.
  10. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.
  11. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.


Psalm 57 is a heartfelt plea for mercy and deliverance in the face of adversity. The psalmist begins by seeking God’s mercy, expressing trust in Him as their refuge amidst calamity, and calling upon His protection until the trials pass.

The psalmist acknowledges God’s sovereignty and ability to save, confident that He will send help from heaven to rescue them from their enemies. They describe their dire situation, surrounded by dangers likened to lions and fiery adversaries, whose weapons threaten their safety.

Amidst the chaos, the psalmist exalts God’s greatness and praises His glory above all the earth. They recount the traps set by their enemies but express assurance in God’s justice, as the wicked fall into the pits they dug for others.

With a steadfast heart, the psalmist resolves to sing praises to God, awakening their instruments to worship Him with thanksgiving and praise. They declare their intention to proclaim God’s mercy and truth among the people and nations, acknowledging His greatness and faithfulness.

In conclusion, the psalmist reiterates the exaltation of God above the heavens and the earth, affirming His sovereignty and glory. Psalm 57 serves as a testament to the believer’s trust in God’s protection and the power of praise amidst adversity.